Is it Cheaper to Heat with Propane or Natural Gas?
With so many different water heaters available on the market, it can feel cumbersome to differentiate the various energy types that drive the industry. For instance, do you know what the differences are between propane and natural gas? Perhaps the most important consideration is the fact that propane produces twice the energy of natural gas. However, natural gas is generally cheaper, costing less per gallon compared to propane. However, many proponents of propane will state that you will use more natural gas to fuel the same appliances than propane. If you receive twice the amount of heat from propane then you will use less fuel, lowering the overall cost. The most recent numbers (as of the writing of this blog) calculate that natural gas costs $9.66 as compared to $56.43 for the same amount. As these numbers fluctuate, be sure to remember that propane drives more energy to less fuel, which may make it more effective for your property needs.
Is it Worth Switching from an Electric to Gas Water Heater?
If cost is important to you, as it is to many homeowners, you may think about switching to gas from electric, if it is feasible for your household. This is because many people find the greatest savings from daily operating costs in gas versus electric water heaters. Gas costs less to operate than electricity. Some water heater experts suggest that water consumption needs may change the overall operating expenses, but this is notwithstanding that gas is still cheaper than electricity.
What are the Pros and Cons of a Gas Water Heater?
Let’s dive into some of the pros and cons of a gas water heater because there are many considerations to consider.
- Electric water heaters: these water heaters are more expensive to operate and can’t be used during an energy outage. Furthermore, they are slower to heat water and there aren’t high-efficiency models available. Yet, these can be less expensive at the time of purchase and require minimal maintenance.
- Gas water heaters: These water heaters are less expensive to run, and heat water faster. They can be used during a power outage and there are lots of sizes available. In contrast to electric water heaters, they can be more expensive at the time of purchase and will require more maintenance. There are also more safety concerns.
Does a Propane Water Heater Need Electricity?
One of the bright sides of using a propane water heater is the fact that they do not require electricity. Gas water heaters use gas to fuel the heat exchanger, light a burner, and heat a conductive element. This element transfers heat to the tank and the water. If the unit is operational, no electricity is necessary.
Propane Water Heater for Camper
Are you wondering whether a propane water heater is good to leave on in a camper? While opinions on leaving a propane water heater on in a camper can be divisive, neither is explicitly wrong. Just remember to turn off the propane while you are traveling in your camper, and you should be fine. If you do that, leaving your RV hot water heater on 24/7 should not pose a significant safety risk or degradation to your camper.
How Does a Propane Water Heater Work
The turn-on mechanism for propane water heaters is actually pretty straightforward. When an individual turns on a hot water faucet or an appliance, a flow sensor will activate a propane gas burner to heat the water. The propane will continue to flow until you turn off the faucet, which will turn off the gas burner.
Can a Gas Water Heater Explode?
When a water heater is not properly maintained, explosions can occur. Now, these are not common but can happen when the gas water heater is not properly installed or inspected over time. That is why it is imperative to only use water heater specialists to install or inspect or maintain these units. Things that can cause a water heater explosion include but are not limited to a poor anode rod or a lot of sediment buildup. With gas, you should also understand that a gas leak presents a tremendous risk to homeowners because it is a significant fire risk. That’s why maintenance and care are important for all of your appliances.
Convert Natural Gas Water Heater to Propane
Now, before you make the move to change your natural gas water heater to propane, remember that not all tank-style water heaters are ready to be converted to propane fuel. The specific make and model of the water heater you own will determine whether it’s possible. Additionally, if you see any warning that indicates that the tank is for gas only, consider getting a new tank rather than converting your existing water heater.
If you are interested in a propane water heater in Lafayette, LA, we would be happy to help! Get in touch with us at 337-321-7264 today!
